AMDGPU Fixes in Linux 6.11-rc7: Addressing Dota 2 Performance Regression
The Linux 6.11-rc7 kernel is set for release this Sunday, with the usual focus on DRM driver fixes—specifically targeting AMDGPU and Intel i915/Xe drivers. However, this week's update includes a notable AMDGPU fix addressing a performance regression that affected recent kernels.
CPU Spikes and VRAM Clearing
A key update from AMD’s Alex Deucher addresses CPU spikes during VRAM clearing when performing GEM allocations. The patch ensures that cleared VRAM is properly allocated, which aligns better with user expectations. While this introduces a slight delay, future improvements from drm buddy clearing patches will likely reduce latency.
This patch resolves a significant performance regression that affected popular titles such as Dota 2 and Rise of the Tomb Raider. Players experienced performance drops when upgrading from Linux-LTS 6.6.42 to Linux 6.10.2, especially during intense gaming sessions.
Addressing the Dota 2 Performance Drop
The performance regression stemmed from an update made four months ago when the clear page functionality was added to the AMDGPU driver. Although not all games were affected, Dota 2 saw significant performance losses, frustrating many players. With this patch, gamers can expect smoother gameplay on AMD Radeon GPUs.
Conclusion
The AMDGPU fixes, along with other DRM driver updates, will be merged into Linux Git today and are set to appear in the Linux 6.11-rc7 kernel. Additionally, this patch will be back-ported to stable kernels to benefit a broader range of users. If you’ve encountered performance issues in recent gaming sessions, these updates should help restore smooth performance.
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